Top 10 best youngsters in football in 2023: Ranked

Published at :January 4, 2024 at 12:37 AM

Modified at :January 13, 2024 at 11:26 AM

Ranking the 10 best youngsters in 2023

In the ever-evolving world of football, as legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo move on to new adventures, the spotlight is now on the emerging talents set to shape the beautiful game’s future. Among these rising stars, a fierce competition for supremacy is building, with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland leading the charge.

However, the next wave of talent, aged 21 or under, is equally captivating, promising a new era of football brilliance. The spotlight now turns to the young talents who are set to take up the mantle and shape the future of the beautiful game.

10. Alejandro Garnacho (19, Manchester United, Argentina)

Alejandro Garnacho,19-year-old Argentina Under-20 international. As a tricky and exciting winger, Garnacho has already found the back of the net in the Premier League for Manchester United.

Under the management of Erik ten Hag, Garnacho is gaining regular game time, a factor that will undoubtedly contribute to his continuous improvement. The debate surrounding his inclusion in the top 10 may be open, but Garnacho’s potential and exposure to footballing icons make him a player to watch as he navigates his promising career in the competitive landscape of the Premier League.

9. Alejandro Balde (20, Barcelona, Spain)

Alejandro Balde, born in Barcelona to Guinean and Dominican parents, is a rising star in the footballing world. Joining Barça’s ranks at the age of eight after coming through the ranks at Espanyol, Balde’s journey is a testament to his determination and talent. The 20-year-old fullback is a fast and explosive presence on the pitch, combining defensive solidity with an ability to support the attack.

Balde’s commitment to representing Spain on the international stage further highlights his potential, having received a surprise call-up to the national team during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. As he continues to develop at Barcelona, Balde is set to be a key figure in the club’s defensive setup and a player who could contribute significantly to Spain’s future footballing successes.

8. Florian Wirtz (20, Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)

Florian Wirtz, the 20-year-old attacking midfielder, has emerged as one of the great hopes of German football. Making his competitive debut for Bayer Leverkusen at the tender age of 17, Wirtz’s journey was briefly interrupted by a serious knee injury during the 2021-22 campaign. However, his resilience has shone through, and he remains a player of immense potential.

Known for his late runs into the box and expert dribbling, Wirtz has bounced back from adversity, and a mega-money transfer could be on the horizon. As he continues to make a name for himself in the Bundesliga, Wirtz represents the future of German football, with the potential to leave a lasting impact on both the domestic and international stages.

7. Eduardo Camavinga (21, Real Madrid, France)

At the age of 21, Eduardo Camavinga finds himself donning the prestigious white jersey of Real Madrid and representing France on the international stage. Although he might be currently biding his time behind midfield stalwarts like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, Camavinga’s time is undoubtedly on the horizon. A strong presence in the heart of the midfield, Camavinga combines physicality with technical ability, making him a future superstar in the making.

Having already secured Champions League, LaLiga, UEFA Super Cup, and Spanish Cup victories, Camavinga’s trophy cabinet speaks volumes about his potential. As he continues to develop under the guidance of seasoned professionals, Camavinga is poised to be the long-term solution for Real Madrid’s midfield and a central figure in France’s quest for international glory.

6. Jamal Musiala (20, Bayern Munich, Germany)

Jamal Musiala, at the age of 20, has already made a significant impact with 90 Bundesliga appearances for Bayern Munich. The Germany international, who opted to represent Germany despite playing for England at youth level, is a versatile attacker with the ability to play out wide or as a No. 10. Musiala’s goal-scoring prowess, with 23 goals in his Bundesliga appearances, has contributed to Bayern’s success, including three Bundesliga titles and German Cup victories.

Musiala’s decision-making, ability to find space between the lines and knack for both creating and scoring goals showcase a maturity beyond his years. Musiala is not just a rising star for Bayern Munich but a potential key figure for the German national team in the years to come.

5. Joško Gvardiol (21, Manchester City, Croatia)

Josko Gvardiol Manchester City Premier League best youngsters — Josko Gvardiol joined Man City in the summer

At just 21 years old, Joško Gvardiol has already embarked on a remarkable journey, sealing a £77 million switch to Manchester City from RB Leipzig. The Croatia international, now the second most expensive defender in the world, possesses the qualities to justify such a hefty price tag. Gvardiol’s comfort on the ball, imposing aerial presence, and versatility to play at left-back add to the expectations that accompany his substantial transfer.

Gvardiol fits seamlessly into Pep Guardiola’s style of play, and his performances suggest that he has the talent to meet the high expectations associated with such a significant transfer fee. As he tests his mettle in a third league, Gvardiol’s journey promises to be one of continuous growth, with the potential to become a defensive stalwart for both Manchester City and the Croatian national team.

4. Gavi (19, Barcelona, Spain)

Just missing out on the top three is Barcelona‘s midfield dynamo, Gavi. At 19 years old, Gavi has already amassed over 70 appearances for Barcelona, showcasing qualities reminiscent of the legendary Xavi and Andres Iniesta. His ability to contribute defensively while displaying silky skills on the ball has made him a standout performer at the Nou Camp.

Gavi’s presence in the centre of the park has added a layer of maturity to Barcelona’s midfield, and his performances have not gone unnoticed. As he continues to light up the Nou Camp, Gavi’s potential seems limitless, and he stands as one of the pillars upon which Barcelona’s future success could be built.

3. Bukayo Saka (22, Arsenal, England)

In third place, we have Arsenal‘s sensational winger, Bukayo Saka, who, at the age of 22, has already established himself as a household name. Saka’s breakout performances have been nothing short of spectacular, both for Arsenal and on the grand stage of the World Cup in Qatar. With over 100 appearances for the Gunners, Saka’s maturity on the ball, defensive contributions, and silky skills have made him a standout performer.

The humble 22-year-old from Ealing has the potential to guide Arsenal to future glory, including a potential Premier League title. Saka’s versatility allows him to play in various attacking positions, and his ability to perform under pressure hints at a bright future for both club and country. As England’s next potential superstar, Saka carries the hopes of a nation eager to witness his continued growth and success.

Khel Now’s Top 10 best youngsters of 2023 👀#Bellingham #musiala #gvardiol #pedri #saka #gavi #garnacho #wirtz #camavinga #football pic.twitter.com/01jFO0Mnl6
— Khel Now World Football (@KhelNowWF) January 3, 2024

2. Pedri (21, Barcelona, Spain)

Pedri best youngsters — Pedri has established himself in Barcelona’s team

In the second spot, we find Barcelona‘s maestro, Pedri. At the age of 21, Pedri has already displayed incredible versatility, excelling in central midfield, and even on the wings when needed. Barcelona’s play seems to flow seamlessly through Pedri, showcasing his ability to dictate the tempo and contribute both defensively and offensively.

Pedri’s individual accolades include winning the UEFA European Championship Young Player of the Tournament in 2020, the 2021 Golden Boy award, and being named in the La Liga Team of the Season for 2021–22. His impact goes beyond statistics; he embodies the essence of Barcelona’s famed midfield legacy. With a promising future ahead, Pedri is set to play a pivotal role in Barcelona’s resurgence and Spain’s international campaigns.

1. Jude Bellingham (20, Real Madrid, England)

The final spot on our list goes to Real Madrid’s Bellingham. Jude Bellingham has already carved a name for himself as one of England’s brightest prospects. Rising through the ranks at Birmingham City, Bellingham caught the footballing world’s attention when he became the youngest-ever first-team player for the club at the age of 16. A move to Borussia Dortmund followed, where he showcased his skills in the Bundesliga before securing a blockbuster transfer to Real Madrid.

Bellingham’s performances in La Liga, the Champions League, and on the international stage for England have been nothing short of stellar. Known for his robust and energetic style of play, Bellingham has added a goal-scoring dimension to his game, making him a true all-rounder in midfield. As he dominated at the World Cup in Qatar, it became evident that Bellingham is not just a rising star but a potential world-beater. The footballing community eagerly anticipates his return to the Premier League, where he is expected to continue his meteoric rise.

In the ever-evolving world of football, these 10 young talents represent the future, each with a unique story, set of skills, and potential to leave an indelible mark on the global stage. From defensive prodigies to midfield maestros and explosive wingers, the next generation is ready to take up the baton from the departing legends. As these youngsters continue to grow and mature, football enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the unfolding chapters of their respective careers, hopeful for the emergence of the next footballing icons.

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